Advocates are rallying support from Congress to prevent the removal of around 200 wild horses in North Dakota's Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The National Park Service is expected to make a decision in April regarding the future of these horses as part of a park management plan. Senator John Hoeven's legislation, included in the annual Interior and Environment budget bill, recommends keeping the horses in place and potentially denies funding for their removal.
The debate revolves around ensuring a genetically viable herd of at least 150 horses to avoid inbreeding issues. Park officials have previously considered removing the horses due to concerns about non-native species posing risks to park resources. The horses, with origins from Native American tribes, area ranches, and domestic stallions, have been a part of the park since the 1950s.
Advocates fear a predetermined removal of the horses, despite overwhelming public support for their presence in the park. The horses are considered living history, reflecting the horses that have been in North Dakota over the past 150 years. Visitors and photographers often enjoy sightings of the horses along the park's scenic road and hiking trails.
The legislation has raised hopes among advocates for the horses' continued presence, but concerns remain about the Park Service's decision. Governor Doug Burgum has offered state collaboration to maintain the horses in the park, and park officials are open to working with the state to find a suitable outcome.
The ultimate decision will also impact approximately nine longhorn cattle in the park's North Unit. Advocates and supporters are eagerly awaiting the Park Service's decision on the future of the beloved wild horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.
